Tuesday, June 3, 2014

How Alamo Tours Will Newly Inspire Every Texan

By Marci Glover


When it comes to examples of making a stand against all odds and against an overwhelming enemy San Antonio in Texas must rate at or near the top of the list. The epic battle between the Mexican hordes and the handful of Texan defenders ended there on 6 Match 1836. Legends such as Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie counted among the brave defenders. Today, more than two and a half million visitors undertake Alamo tours every year.

The battle that took place there remains one of the best remembered in the history of the USA. It is still regarded as a crossroad in the fight for freedom and liberty. In this instance it was a fight against colonization. Visitors go there to pay homage to the courage of those few that were willing to sacrifice their lives for the ultimate American dream of freedom.

This historic site is easily accessible. San Antonio is one of the ten biggest cities in the United States so it is possible to fly there, to go by train or bus or to simply drive there. Directions and traveling advice can be obtained from the official website, thealamo.org. It is also possible to book a variety of guided tours, including exclusive tours for individuals or small groups.

The management maintains a policy that anybody must be able to visit this unique site. This is why they do not charge an entrance fee. Operation costs and maintenance is funded by means of donations from the public and the support of organizations such as The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Texas General Land Office.

At the heart of the site is a church that now serves as a shrine to those who died there. This church was where some of the defenders made their last stand and where they died. Visitors are asked to be respectful. The church contains flags from the countries of origin of all those that formed part of the defense. The building itself features a distinctive architectural hump and a fine ornamental facade.

Visitors should not miss the opportunity to view the excellent exhibits in the Long Barrack Museum. This museum is housed in the oldest building on the site. It dates back three hundred years. It is also here that the most ferocious fighting took place, especially after the outer walls were breached by the enemy. Visitors to the museum can get an excellent introduction to the history of the battle by watching a short film from the History Channel.

The curators of the site maintain that it is a shrine of Texas liberty. Visitors are therefore requested to adhere to a set of unique rules. For example, gentlemen are required to remove their hats prior to entering and no photography is allowed inside any of the buildings. Visitors are to use lowered voices only. Offensive clothing is strictly prohibited.

History often serves as a reminder of great deeds, extraordinary courage and self sacrifice. The Alamo is one such place where Texans, indeed all Americans can honor the efforts their forebears have made to ensure that they are at liberty today. Freedom always has a price and those that paid it deserve remembrance and honor.




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